Columbia University Bows to Pressure: Students Face Punishments for Anti-Israel Protests

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Columbia University Protest
Columbia University Protest Site, featuring Palestinian flags.

Columbia University is making headlines as it reverses course following President Trump’s decisive actions. The prestigious New York-based university has announced an unprecedented move to suspend, expel, and potentially revoke the degrees of students involved in last year’s notorious anti-Israel protests.

The Columbia University Judicial Board confirmed these disciplinary actions, emphasizing that they hinge on the severity of each student’s behavior during the protests. As stated in their official announcement, the university declared: “The outcomes issued by the UJB are based on its evaluation of the severity of behaviors at these events and prior disciplinary actions.”

The protests, which shocked the nation, were marked by violent encampments and severe disruptions, particularly at Columbia. These events not only heightened tensions on campus but also alienated Jewish students, compelling many to avoid the campus altogether.

The notorious occupation of Hamilton Hall, which required intervention by the NYPD, was driven by protestors openly expressing their support for Hamas. The university’s statement, however, remains vague on the exact number of students facing repercussions.

In a commitment to safeguarding its community, the university’s statement added: “We will continue to work to support our community, including protecting the privacy of our students, during this challenging time and we remain steadfastly committed to our values and our mission.”

This stern action from Columbia follows a bold move by President Trump, who slashed $400 million in federal grants and contracts to the university, citing its “inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students.”

As Secretary of Education Linda McMahon asserted, “Universities must comply with all federal antidiscrimination laws if they are going to receive federal funding.” She further condemned Columbia’s longstanding neglect, stating, “Today, we demonstrate to Columbia and other universities that we will not tolerate their appalling inaction any longer.”

For further insight into the impact of this funding cut, check the report here.

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